Capsule endoscopy allows visualization of the mucous membrane of the entire small intestine.

Capsule endoscopy (CE) allows visualization of the entire small bowel mucosa and is therefore an important tool in the evaluation of patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, small bowel strictures, which are common in Crohn's disease, are a contraindication to the use of CE. The aim of a recent study was to determine the risk of capsule retention in patients with CD. The authors analyzed data from 983 CEs, of which 102 were diagnosed with CD. Only 1 patient had capsule retention in a stricture. However, in 5 patients, this complication was observed in close proximity to the stricture. Thus, the authors conclude that physicians conducting the study should be aware of the possibility of developing this complication. Source: Adam S. Cheifetz et al. (The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 12, 2006)